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Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Choices to Prevent Diabetes

Promoting healthy lifestyle choices is crucial in the ongoing battle against diabetes, particularly given the alarming rise in its prevalence worldwide. Diabetes awareness has become more important than ever as we recognize that many cases can be prevented through simple yet effective changes in our daily routines. By focusing on nutrition, physical activity, and regular health check-ups, individuals can take proactive steps towards a healthier future and significantly reduce their risk of developing diabetes.

At the heart of diabetes prevention is a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Educating communities about the benefits of a nutritious diet can lead to informed food choices that help maintain a healthy weight and stable blood sugar levels. Workshops, cooking classes, and community support groups can empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to make healthier meals, ultimately fostering an environment where diabetes awareness and prevention thrive.

In addition to dietary changes, increasing physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing diabetes. Regular exercise not only aids in weight control but also enhances insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Encouraging people to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, mixed with strength training, can create a culture of health within communities. Group activities, such as walking clubs or fitness challenges, can also provide social support, making the journey to better health both enjoyable and sustainable.

Furthermore, regular screenings and check-ups play a critical role in diabetes prevention strategies. By promoting awareness about the importance of monitoring one’s health, individuals can identify early signs of insulin resistance or prediabetes and take action before detrimental health issues arise. Community health initiatives that provide accessible screening programs can play a key role in fostering a culture of vigilance and preventive care. Ultimately, by working together to raise diabetes awareness and emphasizing healthful lifestyle choices, we can pave the way for a healthier population and significantly reduce the impact of this chronic disease.

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Ways You Can Get Involved in Diabetes Awareness Campaigns

​Diabetes awareness is crucial in helping individuals understand the condition and the importance of early detection and management. One effective way to get involved is by participating in local events and fundraising activities organized by diabetes advocacy groups. These events often include walkathons, runs, or community fairs that not only raise funds but also educate the public on diabetes prevention and management. By volunteering your time or resources, you can contribute to spreading vital information and supporting those affected by the disease.

Another impactful way to raise diabetes awareness is by leveraging social media platforms. Sharing informative content, personal stories, or updates about ongoing campaigns can significantly increase visibility and engagement. Consider joining or creating online communities that focus on diabetes education and support, where you can discuss relevant topics, share resources, and provide encouragement to others. This digital activism can reach a broad audience, helping to demystify the condition and dispel common myths surrounding diabetes.

Additionally, consider advocating for policy changes that support diabetes research and patient care. Engage with policymakers in your community to emphasize the importance of funding for diabetes-related programs and initiatives. Writing letters, participating in advocacy days, or even hosting informational sessions can help create a greater awareness of the need for comprehensive healthcare strategies that address diabetes management and prevention. By becoming an active participant in advocacy efforts, you play a key role in shaping the future of diabetes care.

Lastly, consider educating yourself and others about the various types of diabetes and their implications. Hosting workshops or informational sessions at schools, workplaces, or community centers can foster a better understanding among those who may know little about the condition. Providing resources, pamphlets, or interactive discussions can empower others to take charge of their health and understand their risks. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the overall goal of improving diabetes awareness and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those living with the disease.

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Diabetics Find Relief from High Insulin Costs

Since Jan. 1, 2023, people with diabetes have received a break on the cost of their insulin, due to the Affordable Insulin Now Act, part of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). That same reduction in price took effect for Medicare recipients on July 1, 2023. The Act capped insulin prices at $35 per monthly prescription, whether individuals had insurance or not. For many people with the disease, that means greater flexibility in their budget, no more trips to Canada to purchase insulin, and an end to rationing their essential medication.

The Act benefits everyone with the disease, whether they have traditional healthcare insurance, Medicare, or no insurance coverage at all. It benefits approximately 1.5 million Medicare recipients. That amounts to an average savings of $735 per month in Part D costs per person and an overall savings of $27 million in Medicare Part B expenses. The price cap applies to all insulin.

A Gift to the World

Insulin was discovered in 1921 by Sir Frederick G. Banting, Charles H. Best and JJR Macleod. James B. Collip developed the process to purify it. The work was founded on the hypothesis of British scientist Edward Albert Sharpey-Shafer

Banting, Best and Collip sold their patent for $1 each. Banting stated that it was meant to be a gift to the world, with access given to anyone who needed it.

A Gift no Longer

Insulin didn’t remain a gift to the world for long. The pharmaceutical company to which the patent was sold, quickly transformed the life-giving medication into a money-making machine that’s earned the pharmaceutical industry trillions of dollars over the years. The cost became prohibitive, potentially endangering the lives of those who couldn’t afford it.

A Return to the People

The Affordable Insulin Now Act is a step in the right direction for the more than 5 million people in Florida alone that have diabetes and rely on the medication every day. After 100 years, insulin is making its way back to the people in an affordable way.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused, and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

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insulin pump

How Automated Insulin Pumps Work

The majority of those with diabetes rely on testing devices to monitor glucose levels and
manually inject the correct amount of insulin. Others have automated insulin pumps. They’re
used by people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The pumps are considered an alternative
insulin therapy.
Anatomy of an Insulin Pump
An automated insulin pump has a reservoir or holds a cartridge with a set amount of insulin.
The device is typically paired with a sensor. It measures the glucose level in the body and
automatically releases the correct amount of insulin beneath the surface of the skin to
counteract the sugar level. The glucose enters the blood stream where cells can utilize it to
power the body.
The pump connects to the body through tubing that’s inserted through the skin. Alternately,
the pump may be attached directly to the body, but still has a small piece of tubing used to
deliver the insulin beneath the skin. The cartridge is usually changed about every 72 hours.
Insulin pumps most closely emulate the body’s own actions if diabetes wasn’t present. Rapid
acting insulin is typically used with a pump.
Benefits
Insulin pumps have a variety of advantages. They can be combined with a continuous glucose
sensor (CGM) to dispense insulin as needed. It reduces the need for pricking the finger to
measure glucose levels. The pumps also reduce the need for injecting additional amounts of
insulin.
The insulin is injected automatically to meet changing needs. Individuals can also release a
larger amount of insulin at meal times. An insulin pump is a highly efficient and effective way to
control and manage the disease, and for lowering A1C levels.
The pumps are especially beneficial for young children that don’t have the skills or ability to
monitor glucose levels or administer their own insulin. However, insulin pumps are expensive
and they’re limited in the type of insulin that can be dispensed.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

 

 

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Exercising with Type 1 Diabetes

In times past, Type 1 diabetes was called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes since the disease typically manifested in children, teens and young adults. It’s less common than Type 2 diabetes. Those in the medical profession believe Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks the pancreas, which is responsible for releasing insulin. Others have genetic risk factors making them more at risk of developing the disease.

Exercise is an integral part of managing diabetes. The most important aspect is that exercise aids in preventing insulin resistance. People with insulin resistance will need higher doses of insulin to compensate for what they eat. Those with high blood sugar levels, high triglycerides, and high “bad” cholesterol may be deemed insulin resistant by their health care provider.

People who exercise have greater insulin sensitivity. The body will burn carbohydrates more efficiently and they’ll need less insulin to compensate for what they consume. Exercise also helps diabetics burn calories that aids in managing and maintaining their weight. It’s recommended that Type 1 diabetics engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 to 6 days a week, and to go no longer than 48 hours between exercise sessions for optimal results in controlling diabetes.

A combination of exercise and healthy eating is critical in managing diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure. It’s equally important for diabetics to learn how to balance physical activity with their food intake to minimize highs and lows in blood glucose levels. Exercise is beneficial for losing the weight in the mid-section that often accompanies diabetes.

As important as exercise is for managing diabetes, it’s equally crucial that individuals engage in activities that they enjoy. No one is going to maintain regular exercise if they don’t enjoy what they’re doing. No one has to work out at the gym everyday to stay active and get in sufficient exercise. They can ride horses, rollerblade, dance, or do yoga, tai chi or water aerobics.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

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Ways to Prevent a Blood Sugar Crash

After a diabetes diagnosis, doctors are quick to warn people about spikes in glucose levels, but little is said about blood sugar crashes, known as hypoglycemia. They’re just as dangerous as a spike and can lead to a coma or even death. A sugar crash can occur when sufficient carbs aren’t consumed or after administering too much insulin.

A blood sugar crash encompasses a wide range of symptoms. Some people experience only one or two signs, while others will have multiple symptoms. They can include shakiness, sweating and fatigue to headache, irritability, paleness, and a fast or irregular heartbeat. Some people feel hunger or nauseous, dizziness or lightheadedness, or a tingling or numbness of the cheek, lips or tongue.

If not addressed immediately, symptoms worsen. They include confusion, blurry vision, slurred speech, and loss of coordination. The individual may have a seizure, lose consciousness, and be unresponsive. There are multiple ways to prevent blood glucose crashes, but requires work on the part of the person with the disease.

Monitoring

Constant monitoring is required to determine if sugar levels are elevated or decreasing. Individuals use a continues glucose monitor (CGM) or a traditional monitor and test strip method.

Regulation

To regulate blood glucose levels, those with diabetes need to eat a variety of foods consisting of long and fast acting carbohydrates. Both are needed to ensure glucose levels remain steady. A sugar crash can be alleviated by eating or drinking something sweet to increase glucose levels.

Too Much Insulin

Without testing, there’s no way to know if sugar levels are dropping. Levels that are too high often mimic symptoms of being too low. Taking too much insulin in an effort to compensate for high glucose levels will result in a sugar crash. Some types of medications also have the potential to reduce glucose levels and its something that individuals need to be vigilant about.

Not Eating

One of the directives from doctors to diabetics is to lose weight or to watch their weight carefully. That leads many to try dieting. Not eating regular meals, eating irregularly, or forgetting to eat are sure ways to cause a sugar crash.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

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insulin pump

What Does an Insulin Pump Do?

The methods for managing diabetes have expanded rapidly and people with the disease now have many more options. One management method that has been around since 1979 is the insulin pump. It’s an attractive alternative for those that are tired of injecting insulin.

An insulin pump works in two ways. It automatically delivers the appropriate amount of insulin in a measured and continuous dose. Individuals can also direct the pump to release a large dose prior to having a meal. The small, computerized devices provide a convenient means of maintaining insulin control without the need to stop activities and manually administer a dose of insulin.

When using an insulin pump, insulin is delivered through a small plastic tube called a catheter. The catheter is attached to the pump on one end and a needle is attached to the other end. The needle is inserted into the fatty tissue of the body and taped in place. Insulin pumps emulate the body’s normal functioning.

Modern insulin pumps can be integrated with a continuous glucose monitor. Doing so helps people understand how different activities and meal times affect glucose levels. The pumps help individuals attain better control and lower A1C numbers.

The pumps have been used for people of all ages. If a continuous glucose monitor isn’t used in conjunction with the pump, individuals will still need to perform regular testing. It’s an important safety measure to ensure that the pump is working correctly. If for any reason the pump fails to perform, it can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous condition.

Choosing an insulin pump over insulin injections is a highly personal decision. The pumps can be especially beneficial for those that have slow digestion and absorption of food from the stomach, known as gastroparesis. It’s advantageous for women planning a pregnancy, those that are very active, and people that experience frequent low blood sugar readings.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

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rising cost of diabetes

The Rising Cost of Living with Diabetes

The economic cost to individuals with diabetes continues to increase. It’s the most expensive chronic disease in the U.S. to treat and it’s the 7th leading cause of death. It doesn’t matter whether individuals have Type 1, Type 2 or gestational diabetes, the cost of treatment and management is significant.

Genetics

It’s important that people understand that while lifestyle choices can contribute to the development of diabetes, there are other factors at play. Genetics play a significant role and a variety of viruses can trigger the immune system to attack the cells in the pancreas that enable cells to use glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. The result is diabetes.

Rising Costs

There are numerous reasons for the increase in costs, the primary of which is that pharmaceutical companies are charging more for their products. They’re transitioning from older forms of insulin to newer types and claim the higher prices are necessary to pay for the cost of developing it.

Insulin is essentially a cash cow for pharmaceutical companies that know people with diabetes must have insulin to live. The U.S. represents 15 percent of the insulin market globally but generates 50 percent of the industry’s revenue.

Affordability

Diabetic-related costs are taking a high toll on people with the disease, mentally, physically and financially. Many individuals can’t afford the test strips or insulin they need to monitor and manage the disease and it’s not just the uninsured and underinsured feeling the effects. Insurance companies are demanding that clients pick up a larger share of the costs through higher co-pays.

The American Diabetes Association gives the estimated cost of diabetes in 2017 – the last year for which statistics are available – as $327 billion, an increase of 26 percent over the previous 5 years. The situation is so dire in the U.S. that an increasing number of people are traveling to Canada to obtain the insulin and supplies they need.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

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Reducing Your Risk for Diabetes as you Age

A number of changes take place as you age, which includes the potential to develop diabetes. It’s important to understand that not all people will be diagnosed with diabetes as they age. However, medical science indicates that adults age 45 and over are at greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance and impaired pancreatic functioning due to age-related causes.

There are some elements that affect the risk of developing diabetes at any age and they’re factors that you have no control over. They include behaviors of the past or a genetic predisposition to it. A sedentary lifestyle or a close relative with diabetes are also risk factors.

The highly respected Mayo Clinic suggests that everyone take preventative steps as they age to avoid being diagnosed with the disease. It’s especially important if you’ve been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. It’s never too late to begin a healthier routine that can aid in preventing the disease.

Diet

Eating smart to prevent diabetes is as simple as consuming more fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, and fiber. Those simple changes will aid in weight loss and improving your sensitivity to insulin. Portion size is an important part of reducing the potential for diabetes. It’s better to eat several smaller meals than large meals that will spike glucose levels.

Severely limit sugary drinks such as soda and alcoholic beverages, along with fast food and refined carbohydrates. Drink plenty of water and make it your beverage of choice – add slices of lemon for flavor to make it more appealing. Vitamin D plays a role in glucose control and improves the function of insulin-producing cells.

Exercise

One of the factors connected with diabetes is weight gain. Aerobic exercise is an excellent way to stay fit and burn extra calories. The exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous or extreme – brisk walks or swimming are good forms of exercise. Swimming uses every muscle in the body and water has the ability to lessen the pull of gravity on the body, making exercise easier for those with joint or bone conditions.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

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Conquering your Fear of Needles

For most diabetics, needles to inject insulin or perform a finger prick for testing blood glucose levels is a fact of life. Even if you’re using a modern blood sugar monitoring system that eliminates finger pricks, chances are you’re going to have to administer insulin from a vial via a syringe or a needle for insulin pens.

A fear of needles is a major problem for anyone with diabetes. It’s traumatic enough when someone else is giving you an injection and it may seem like a nearly insurmountable task when asked to do it to yourself – not to mention the regular blood tests required at the doctor’s office.

A fear of needles can cause mild anxiety to incapacitating fear, depending on the individual. However, you may be one of the millions of people that is able to overcome the fear and anxiety on your own. Faced with a choice of testing and injecting insulin vs. the potential of dying is an excellent motivator.

Determining the Cause

The method and technique to help you address your fear of needles will depend largely on the reason for it. Anxiety or outright fear can stem from a prior physical experience that was painful or unpleasant. For others, the fear can be psychological in nature. It’s important for you to try and determine the reason for your fear to get the appropriate help.

Antianxiety Medication

It’s important that you speak with your physician about your trepidation. He/she can prescribe anti-anxiety medication that can help calm you. If your doctor doesn’t listen, isn’t sympathetic to your plight, or minimizes your fear, perhaps it’s time to find another physician.

Numbing Creams/Gels

There are over-the-counter and prescription level creams and gels that can be applied topically prior to the needle stick to numb the area. They can be particularly beneficial if the fear of pain associated with a needle stick is at the root of the problem.

Therapy

A therapist can help you minimize, cope with, or completely eradicate your fear of needles. A highly-trained therapist can help you ascertain where your fear originates and provide ways for you to overcome it. Some mental health professionals can also prescribe medications, while others will work with your physician if any type of medication is required.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

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